Monday, January 29, 2007 Battered women still afraid to come out By Grace L. Plata
RENOWNED clinical therapist Margarita "Margie" Holmes said even in this day and age when feminists have a louder voice, a lot of women are still afraid to admit that they have been victims of domestic violence.
Holmes, in a press conference said some things still haven’t changed in terms of the women who are abused.
Most still feel they have to stay in the marriage because of the children or because society dictates so.
Holmes said economic dependence on the male spouse is still one of the main factors why women stay with abusive husbands because they fear that they will be left helpless including the children.
Also, the perennial hope that the man would change makes the women quick to believe the excuses and accept the apologies.
"We have to stop romanticizing this kind of damaging and unflattering jealousy," said Holmes.
She added that society must provide options for women to eliminate the feeling of being trapped.
"Women feel like they have no choice. Thus they must be made to see that there are options, which can include extricating themselves legally from their abusive spouses to be free to pursue happiness with someone or something else," said Holmes.
However, Holmes who is also a part of the Women Crisis Center said "slowly but surely" efforts have been made to provide viable options for abused women or children.
She added that society should also be open to the possibility of legalizing divorce in the country to protect victims of such cases.
Holmes was in town to speak about the emotional preparedness of would-be couples at the "Before I Do" Bridal Fashion Show produced by J&L Artistic Creations Events Plus.
